+252

+252 is the country calling code assigned to Somalia. This code is used when placing calls from abroad to Somali telephone networks, preceded by the international dialing prefix of the originating country (for example, 00 or +).

Country code assignments are managed by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), an agency of the United Nations. +252 falls within the series of codes beginning with 2, allocated to African countries.

Domestic numbering structure

Somali domestic numbers follow inconsistent formats. Different mobile networks use varying prefixes, and number length differs between providers and regions. This stems primarily from the emergence of many independent network operators during the period of weak central government authority, without implementation of a unified national numbering plan.

Somaliland situation

Somaliland, which declared independence in 1991 but has not received international recognition, remains under +252 according to ITU's official list. The Hargeisa administration has at various times requested a separate country code, but this remains contingent on political recognition. Somaliland calls typically use prefixes assigned within the +252 system.

Telecommunications development

Since the early 1990s, privately owned telephone operators have provided mobile, internet, and mobile money services in Somalia. Significant market competition has driven down calling costs, though network interconnection and regulation remained absent for an extended period. In recent years, a national telecommunications authority has been established to improve management of numbering allocation and services.